radiance

[rey-dee-uhns]

noun

1. radiant brightness or light.

   the radiance of the tropical sun.

   Synonyms: brilliance, splendor, resplendence

2. warm, cheerful brightness.

   the radiance of her expression.

3. Rare.,  radiation.

radiance

/ ˈreɪdɪəns /

noun

1. the quality or state of being radiant

2. Le. a measure of the amount of electromagnetic radiation leaving or arriving at a point on a surface. It is the radiant intensity in a given direction of a small element of surface area divided by the orthogonal projection of this area onto a plane at right angles to the direction

Other Word Forms

• nonradiance noun
• subradiance noun
• superradiance noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of radiance¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; radi(ant) + -ance

Example Sentences

The most accurate description I’ve seen in online forums captures its primal radiance: They call it the movie’s “holy s**t” moment.

From Salon

The most accurate description I've seen in online forums captures its primal radiance: They call it the movie's "holy s**t" moment.

From Salon

Good thing too, given the easy radiance of Gatwa’s smile and the ebullient spark with which his Time Lord moves through the universe.

From Salon

Her radiance and comfort as a romantic lead are palpable even with the cringy dialogue and fantastical, instant love between Hayes and Solène.

From Salon

It looked as if she was losing her radiance.

From New York Times

Related Words

• warmth